Downsview Secondary School

Student of the Week

Week of November 28, 2011

Eliese V.

Downsview, for the week of November 28th, your Student of the Week is Eliese V.
Eliese is in her final year at Downsview.

Eliese’s nomination comes from her admiring Biology teacher, Ms Donis. Here is her endorsement: “Eliese is cooperative, polite, helpful and friendly. She is always willing to help others, even when they are not the easiest to work with. She is willing to share her supplies and her knowledge with her peers. Overall, she is a positive influence on the people around her. Eliese also has top marks in this class.” Ms Donis’ nomination speaks of a young woman who works hard, not just for her own success, but for that of others. It’s no coincidence that this is a mark of the truly successful: they are generous, not covetous with their knowledge.

Ms Joseph has this to add: “Eliese is a student of mine in the Grade 12 Individuals and Families in a Diverse Society. She is one of my top students.
She attends class regularly and is punctual. She works well individually and also as a group participant. She has a pleasant personality and is a pleasure to have in class!” Ms Hope rounds out the nomination with these words: “Yay for Eliese! Eliese is a quiet contributor to our English class, however, in presentations she takes centre stage. I am so impressed with the way she is able to suppress any nervous feelings and speak confidently and effectively. She conducts herself with such poise that it is impossible to deny her authority of her material. Eliese is a natural public speaker and I encourage her to seek out such opportunities.”

Eliese has translated this confidence beyond the walls of DSS. Challenging subjects in senior year are enough to keep anyone occupied, but Eliese also works four or five times a week, and she volunteers at our local branch of the public library. Since April 2010, she has been a member of the Youth Advisory Group, which meets monthly to facilitate activities for young people. Eliese also leads production of a monthly newsletter created by this group.

With a full schedule of school, work and community service, it’s not surprising that Eliese admits to being very tired. But don’t confuse a little fatigue for grouchiness, Eliese is unfailingly cheerful and engaged. Eliese will, without a doubt, take this attitude into her chosen profession, inspired by her mother – nursing. Her honour roll level marks confirm that “hard work” is not a negative. Clearly, her fine character has been constructed through hard work.

Congratulations once again to you, Eliese V., for your very deserving win as Student of the Week.

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